This sixth and final volume gathers the last works of Wilhelm Hauff, a writer whose career was tragically cut short when he died at just 25. It's a mix of his fully realized masterpieces and unfinished pieces, offering a fascinating look into a creative mind that burned bright and fast.

The Story

The star here is the fairy tale 'The Cold Heart'. We follow Peter Munk, a charcoal burner in the Black Forest who's tired of his hard, poor life. He meets a mysterious glass-mannikin (a kind of forest spirit) and later, a much darker figure: the Dutchman Michel, who represents raw, destructive power. Peter makes a deal with Michel: his living heart for a heart of stone, and in exchange, immense wealth. At first, it seems like a great trade. Peter becomes rich and powerful. But he slowly realizes he can't feel joy, love, or pity anymore. The money means nothing. The story becomes his desperate quest to get his real heart back, a journey through magical forests and his own conscience.

Why You Should Read It

Hauff has a special talent. He takes the familiar shape of a fairy tale and fills it with real, human problems. Peter's desire for a better life is something we all understand. His mistake isn't wanting more; it's forgetting what truly matters to get it. The story isn't preachy, though. It's suspenseful, eerie, and moving. Reading the other pieces in this volume, you get a sense of what was lost. There are clever satires, historical sketches, and story fragments that show his range. It makes you wonder what other stories he could have told. There's a poignant energy here, the work of a young writer pouring everything he had onto the page.

Final Verdict

This is for anyone who loves a good story with soul. It's perfect for readers who think classic fairy tales are just for kids—Hauff proves they can carry deep, lasting wisdom. It's also a great pick if you enjoy atmospheric, folkloric tales like those by the Brothers Grimm, but want something with a more polished, literary feel. Because it's a collection, you can dip in and out. Just be prepared: 'The Cold Heart' might stick with you long after you close the book, a gentle reminder to check in on what your own heart is telling you.